Many men have a preference when it comes to shaving over a straight razor blade versus an electric razor. The electric razor does give you a quick shave but often times it can not get as close to the skin as a straight razor because the hair has to enter the shaver to be cut. The straight razor can get right down where it actually shaves away the outer layer of dead skin and give a man the closest possible shave. This type of shave requires you to stroke the blade in a certain manner in different areas of the face to get the maximum smooth shave. Here are some techniques that will help you when you are shaving with a straight razor.

Men typically have a much smoother appearance in their face after shaving with a razor because the blade comes in contact with the outer layer of skins and removes it with the hair. This is also why men experience a burning sensation after applying certain after shave lotions. When you shave with a razor the reason that the shave is so much more closer than an electric razor is because the razor actually pulls the hair up from the follicle and cuts it, once cut the remaining piece of hair snaps back to where it goes under the top layer of skin. You will feel virtually no stubble at all after shaving with a straight razor. By removing the outermost layer of skin every few days the new layer tends to be tighter and toner each time giving men that youthful appearance.

Shaving the right way with a straight razor blade can make all the difference in a smooth complexion and one with bumps, nicks, and scratches. To begin shaving you should try to hold the blade at a 30 degree angle to get the closest possible shave. Start shaving on the side of your face where your side burns would be. Stroking the razor in a downward motion will make certain that you do not get caught up and cut your face. By following the direction of the hair growth you will minimize the chance of nicks. When you get to the chin area, tilt your head back with chin up so the skin is nice and tight and work the razor down again towards the neck area.

Continue shaving the area from your chin to your neck with your head tilted back until you have completed both sides of your face. The next area is under the nose and under the mouth. Again work the blade with the hair in a downward stroke until you are complete. Now to get the closest shave possible rinse your face completely clean and relather again. Now that all the hair has been removed it is time to remove the stubble. With your face nice and lathered repeat the same areas you just did but work the razor in the opposite direct, against the direction of the hair growth. This will catch the hair from the other direction and give you the closest shave you ever had. Rinse when complete and apply lotion to protect the new layer of skin and you are done.